'Strictly Come Dancing' Announce Nicola Adams Will Be In First Same Sex Pairing

Strictly Come Dancing has officially announced that contestant Nicola Adams will be in the TV show's first same-sex pairing.

The BBC competition is returning to screens, despite the coronavirus pandemic, and double Olympic gold medallist boxer Nicola will be the first celeb with a same-sex partner in the show's 16-year history.

Instagram/ Nicola Adams)

Previously, the show has featured two male professional dancers performing a routine together, and a big group same-sex dancing number, but stopped short of featuring a celebrity pairing of two men or two women.

Nicola joins Clara Amfo, Max George, Ranvir Singh, Caroline Quentin and Jason Bell, who will also be taking the ballroom floor.

We can expect more Strictly stars to be announced as the day goes on.

BBC)

The news of Nicola's female dance partner comes as pop star Ian Watkins - H from Steps - was paired with Matt Evers on ITV's Dancing On Ice, placing mounting pressure on the BBC to get with the times and follow suit.

On joining the show, Nicola said: "I'm really excited to be joining this year's incredible line-up for Strictly Come Dancing.

"I'm a huge fan of the show and am thrilled to be part of something that holds such a special place in so many people's hearts. People might know me from work in the ring, but I'll be every bit as passionate and dedicated on the dance-floor too.

BBC)

"I also wanted to thank the BBC for supporting me and making me the first ever all female-pairing; and it's amazing to be a part of the movement for change, diversity and breaking boundaries in the entertainment industry."

Judge Craig Revel Horwood had previously pushed the BBC to be "brave" and introduce the same-sex pairings, saying that it would be a huge step in allowing LGBTQ+ people to feel represented.

"I think more and more people want it, the more it will happen. I have no argument against it," he said back in 2018.

"I think it would be rather fun. Maybe the BBC will be brave enough one day to do it".

This year's series of Strictly won't go on for as long as the usual season, thanks to coronavirus precautions.

Bruno Tonioli will also be missing from the judging panel for the Saturday night shows as he is splitting his time between the UK competition and America's Dancing With The Stars, and won't be able to travel back from LA due to current restrictions.

We're so please to see Nicola join the line-up, and can't wait to see who she's paired with!

Topics: Strictly, TV News, TV Entertainment, Strictly Come Dancing

Joanna Freedman

Joanna is a journalist at Tyla with a particular interest in highlighting women's issues and telling inspiring first person stories. She's also their resident foodie, and loves covering exciting new beauty launches, too. Contact her at [email protected].

@joannafreedman